Running a commercial kitchen is not just about preparing delicious food. Your kitchen’s extraction systems, ductwork, and ventilation play a key role behind the scenes. It helps to keep the air clean, reducing fire risks, and ensuring compliance with safety laws. That’s where TR19 ductwork cleaning enters in the game.
What is TR19?
TR19 is a standard set by the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) for cleaning of ventilation systems. TR19 guidelines are specifically designed for commercial kitchens. TR19 focus on cleaning extraction systems including ducts, fans, and filters to make sure they are free from dangerous grease build-up.
The standard ensures:
- Hygieneby preventing bacteria growth in hidden areas.
- Fire safetyby removing flammable residues.
- Air qualityby keeping ventilation systems working efficiently.
- Compliancewith insurance and health regulations.
If your business uses a kitchen extraction system, you are expected to follow TR19 extraction cleaning procedures.
Why TR19 Kitchen Extract Cleaning is Important
Grease is one of the biggest hazards in commercial kitchens. While your extraction system removes steam and smoke, it also traps grease particles inside ducts and fans. Over time, this grease hardens and creates serious risks:
- Poor air flow– Blocked ducts reduce ventilation efficiency, making kitchens hot and smoky.
- Fire hazard– Grease can put your kitchen on fire if heat or flames reach the ductwork.
- Legal and insurance requirements– Many insurers require proof of TR19 ductwork cleaning to cover fire damage.
How Often Should TR19 Extraction Cleaning Be Done?
The frequency of extraction cleaning depends on the usage of your kitchen:
- Light use(2–6 hours per day): Every 12 months
- Moderate use(6–12 hours per day): Every 6 months
- Heavy use(12–16 hours per day): Every 3 months
The TR19 Ductwork Cleaning Process
Professional TR19 cleaning is a detailed process carried out by trained specialists. Here’s what usually happens:
- Inspection and risk assessment
The cleaning team checks the ductwork system to see where grease is building up and how much cleaning is needed.
- Access panel installation
Technicians can install panels if there aren’t enough access points in the duct to reach the hidden areas.
- Deep cleaning
Specialists use mechanical brushes, scrapers, and safe chemical degreasers to remove grease from every part of the system — including fans, filters, and ductwork.
- Testing and checking
Once cleaning is complete, they check the system to ensure airflow is improved and no grease remains.
- Certificate of compliance
After cleaning, you receive a TR19 compliance certificate. This is important for insurance claims and health inspections.
Choosing a TR19 Certified Cleaning Company
Not every cleaning company can provide TR19-compliant services. When hiring, look for:
- Certification from the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA).
- Experience in TR19 kitchen extract cleaning.
- Positive reviews from other commercial kitchens.
- Proof of insurance and safety training.
A professional company will not only clean your system thoroughly but also provide the all-important TR19 compliance report for your records.
Conclusion
TR19 ductwork cleaning is not only designed to keep your kitchen clean but it’s about protecting your customers, staff, and business from any possible issues. Over time, grease build-up can cause dangerous fires, poor air quality, and costly legal issues.
If you regularly schedule TR19 extraction cleaning, you can be confident that your kitchen is safe, hygienic, and fully follow the regulations of UK.
Think about it today, as it is an essential investment in the safety and reputation of your business.
